ISL 4: Marcelinho strike takes Pune closer to playoffs

Posted February 12th, 2018, 11:16 AM IST

Mumbai: Raju Gaikwad’s own goal in the first half and a late goal from Marcelinho helped FC Pune City clinch three points against Mumbai City FC in the Maharashtra Derby of the Indian Super League here on Sunday.

Pune moved an inch closer to the playoffs, with the 2-0 win at the Mumbai Football Arena

The teams had equal opportunities in the first half but it was Pune who took the lead. They created chances in quick succession with the third one putting them in the lead.

Marko Stankovic who was the architect behind it won the ball in the attacking half and passed it to Sarthak Goloui on the right wing. The wingback’s cross brushed Diego Carlos’ head and went into the net in the 18th minute off the knee of Mumbai defender Gaikwad. The hosts could very equalised in the 24th minute when Achille Emana ran past a couple of defenders from the left to pass it to Everton dos Santos, who blasted over to leave the hosts trailing 0-1 at half time.

Pune dictated the proceedings in the second session. Marcelinho added to Mumbai’s misery in the 83rd minute. Substitute Jonathan Lucca sent a through ball after a run from the left wing.

The Brazilian placed it past goalkeeper Amrinder with a stunning left-footed finish to seal the victory.